[Dfigtree]

I bought a house in the Berkshires western Massachusetts. The house has a wood deck. The association suggests that we use a contractor to apply Cuprinol.

Is this necessary? Thanks.

 

[ccarlisle]

Well, 'Cuprinol' has a number of products in their line-up for outdoor decks so it's a "full treatment" company. I guess they also have applicators in your region.

So your association suggests, what?... a certain product line only? or an applicator who applies that line - and no-one else? Why? Deck maintenance IMO, has more to do with proper technique and proper products than with products alone, so I'd wonder about that question...does someone have a contract for the maintenance of all the decks of the association? Is there a kick-back?

Because in my view there are only one or two products out there that are so unique that there's no replacement for them. Pressure-treated wood isn't complicated nor is proper treatment of it. So if someone tells me "to use Brand X only" on my treated wood deck, I'd tell them where to go. :laughing:

To keep within certain standards of the association is fine, but what I think they are really asking is that you adhere to certain treatment practices (like treatments every year) rather than you have to use "Product X" or 'Company Y'...:wink:

 

[Deckcareguy]

Cant argue with that guys logic

Take a look at my decks WWW.surface-maintenance.com If any of them match the decks in your neighborhood go with a product that is maintainable as well as cost effective. You will pay hell when cupinal begins to crack chip and peel. I charge a premium for urethane removals, people tend to double and triple coat their decks over the years further exasterbating the problem.

 

[Just Bill]

Cuprinol, at least the product I know, is for treating wood in contact with the ground. It is fairly toxic and should not be used where there is human contact. I thought it had been banned, or regulated to professional use only.